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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Southern Ionics Expands Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Manufacturing Operations

10/07/2025
Chemical manufacturer and distributor Southern Ionics plans to expand its manufacturing operations in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The $34 million project is expected to create seven jobs.

The investment will include upgraded equipment and a new product line at the company’s existing facility. Production is scheduled to begin by the second quarter of 2027.

“We’ve been proud to operate in Tuscaloosa for many years, and this expansion represents our confidence that we can continue to be successful here,” said Joe Stevens, president and chief operating officer of Southern Ionics.

To support the project the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority approved a $1.7 million incentives package abating non-educational sales and use taxes during construction. The package will also abate non-educational ad valorem taxes for up to 10 years.

“When a company with operations throughout the Southeast chooses to reinvest here, it demonstrates trust in our people and resources,” noted Steven Rumsey, chair of the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority. “This expansion brings high quality jobs and significant investment to our community, and highlights what makes Tuscaloosa special—our skilled workforce, supportive leadership, and a community that values both business success and quality of life. Furthermore, it reflects the kind of steady, long-term growth we strive to support.”

Southern Ionics (SII) specializes in inorganic chemicals, including sulfur and aluminum chemistries, used in diverse applications such as drinking water purification, clean fuel production, and paint pigments.

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